WASHINGTON, Kan.-The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) are investigating the shooting of a golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) in northwest Kearny County, Kan.
The golden eagle was observed on March 9, 2017 but recovered on March 10, 2017. The eagle was found on Road 270, approximately one half mile west of Road G in northwest Kearny County. This area is approximately 10 miles north and 9.5 miles west of Lakin, Kan.
Local residents may know the location by two former homesteads in the area. The location of the bird was approximately one half mile south and one half mile west of the “old Summers place” and one and a half miles east of “Virgil Patterson’s old farm.”
The eagle was found with a broken wing and captured by a Game Warden with the KDWPT. The eagle was treated by a local veterinarian but its injuries were too severe, and it had to be euthanized.
The golden eagle may have been shot several days prior to it being recovered, and may have been mistaken for a hawk. Residents may remember the timeframe as this was when several major fires were burning in western Kansas including the Clark County, Lane County and Finney County fires. Anyone with information regarding the shooting is asked to contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement in Washington, KS at (785) 747-7539 or the local KDWPT Game Warden at (620) 282-7009, or Operation Game Thief hotline at (800) (877) 426 3843.
The Service will pay a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible. Anyone contributing that information to authorities can remain anonymous.
Golden eagles are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The shooting of any eagle is considered a violation of those acts.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service.
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